Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 7
7
Accepted
Explain how local authorities are implementing bus passenger improvements through technology
Conclusion
Bus passenger experience is variable across the country in part due to patchy implementation of technology. The Department’s open data system should enable bus passengers to access real-time information for any bus in England, but this does not match bus users’ experience. Only 16% of respondents to a recent bus user survey had access to live updates at their bus stop. Some areas have introduced QR codes at bus stops to facilitate access to real-time information on bus locations. Others are using technology to prioritise buses at busy junctions. The Department has supported trials of demand-responsive transport in 17 rural areas, where smaller buses or taxis provide a link from villages into local towns, with users requesting journeys via an app. There are opportunities to use technology to improve bus services for everyone, but care must be taken to prevent digital exclusion. 6 recommendation The Department should, within six months, write to the committee explaining how it is helping all local transport authorities implement improvements for bus passengers through better use of technology. 7 1 Approach to funding bus services and monitoring outcomes achieved Introduction
Government Response Summary
The government is funding technological improvements through Bus Service Improvement Plans and supporting the implementation of a national, contactless smart ticketing solution outside London. It is also helping local transport authorities use data via the Analyse Bus Open Data Service and providing guidance through the Bus Centre of Excellence.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. technological improvements for bus passengers. In addition to funding improvements through Bus Service Improvement Plans, the department is supporting the implementation of a national, smart ticketing solution developed in partnership with Transport for West Midlands, major bus operators, and Midlands Connect. This initiative will enable contactless pay-as-you- go travel on bus and tram services, with fares automatically capped according to the rules set by local authorities. At the core of the solution is a broker system that will process trip data from participating operators, providing a solution that every authority in England (outside London) can use. The department is also helping local transport authorities make better use of data and technology. This includes providing access to the Analyse Bus Open Data Service (ABODS), which enables authorities to monitor service performance and make informed decisions about their networks. Further support is provided through the Bus Centre of Excellence (BCoE) which provides best practice and guidance across all aspects of bus service delivery. The department will consider opportunities to enhanced BCoE’s role in providing support in this area as part of the work set out at paragraph 5.3 above.